In modern business culture, “thought leaders” often depict the workplace as a positive environment of teamwork and productivity, provided we expect the best out of people.
The underlying message is that most people just want to work hard and function as a team.
I believe that’s an insufficient framework, leading to unrealistic expectations.
It’s been my experience that people who have such optimistic expectations are often manipulated and exploited by others. These same individuals eventually become disappointed and disillusioned, even cynical.
All humans are fallible. If we take this into account, we are more likely to have realistic expectations and operate more effectively.
Case in Point: Validation
A fundamental truth is that people are primarily concerned with their own self-interests. Many people will overlook the good work that you do simply because, they are focused on themselves; they don’t care about your accomplishments. They may also (irrationally) believe that it will cost them something to acknowledge you.
Sometimes they’re competing with you for a promotion or want to be favored by peers and supervisors. If that’s the case, you’ll be waiting a long time for any validation.
Take human self-interest into account when assessing your own work. It’s not realistic to evaluate yourself and your work using validation from others as a point of measurement. Modifying this perspective on validation will enable you to evaluate your own work more accurately whether it’s recognized by others or not.
This advice by Seneca, written about 2000 years ago makes the point:
“If you wish to take your own measure, put aside money, your estates, your honors and look into your own soul. At present you are taking the word of others for what you are.” – Seneca, letters 80.10
The very best to you.